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As we end the year, there is some excitement at Pigeon Point. The first of the new metalwork has arrived and been installed on the lowest belt course. Robinson Iron, in Alabama, is fabricating replacement parts for the Pigeon Point lighthouse, in most cases using marine grade stainless steel rather than cast iron to improve durability. The company specializes in the historic restoration of cast metal facades, art pieces, and sculpted ornamentations adorning historic properties throughout the United States and beyond.

 

1. At the start of the project, the cast iron of the lowest belt course was completely compromised.
2. Once the cast iron was removed, the underlying brick’s deterioration was evident.
3. With the worst of the brick removed, and new masonry laid, the mock-up pieces for the new metal were evaluated for fit.

The photo array follows the lowest belt course from the start of the project in January 2024 to December 2025 with the attachment of the new steel framing to the brick at the tower’s base. A piece of the final “skin” waits on the ground for mounting and welding. Once the installation is complete, the new belt course will be coated black to recreate the look and feel of the original belt course.

 

4. The base is prepared for the new metal pieces and additional masonry between the two belt courses
5. The new belt course pieces arrive at Pigeon Point on a brilliant Sunday evening.
6. The stainless-steel belt course framing is bolted into the brick while a piece of the new skin waits for installation.

It is difficult to pinpoint an exact completion date for this complicated project, but it is moving along nearly as planned. We can’t wait to see this magnificent piece of history brought back to its former glory! If you are a CSPA donor, then you have been an important piece of the restoration! Thank you!

— Julia Barrow, Special Projects Coordinator